The M16 series of assault rifles and carbine variants are used by the following actors in the following movies, television series, video games, and anime:

Colt and Official Government Models

M16 Rifle

The original M16, the first version, firing in a 20-round magazine, adopted in large numbers by the US Air Force in Vietnam. This has the original 3-prong flash hider. It would later be replaced by the upgraded M16A1 - 5.56x45mm

M16 aka SP1 (flat "slab side receiver") with an A1 "birdcage" Flash hider, used to resemble the M16A1 in many Vietnam era movies. This version has a 20 round magazine - 5.56x45mm

M16 aka SP1 (flat "slab side receiver") with an A1 "birdcage" flash hider, used to resemble the M16A1 during the 1970s and 1980s. This version has a 30 round magazine - 5.56x45mm

Since the original M16 is the first pattern AR-15 select fire rifle that was adopted in 1964 by the US Air Force in Vietnam (and also given to the ARVN) all appearances of the slab side M16 in movies and television shows would be either the Class III Colt M16 or the commercially available Colt AR-15 SP1 rifle. After being phased out from active duty, the military owned weapons were issued to National guard units (and later bequeathed to Federal and local law enforcement agencies). Movie Armorers could acquire Law Enforcement Sales models of the M16, as Class III transferable weapons or built as Class III manufacturers. However, an easier way was for commercially sold semiautomatic Colt AR-15 SP1 rifles to be converted to full auto fire in the 1970s and 1980s and these were in movie armories for years.

XM16E1 Rifle

XM16E1 rifle with 20 round magazine - 5.56x45mm

Mockup of an XM16E1 rifle with 20 round magazine - 5.56x45mm. What distinguishes it from the original M16 was the addition of the forward assist button and a chrome bolt carrier (which was later dropped with the M16A1). This can be identified as a mockup by its full magazine fence and strengthened front pivot point, neither of which appeared on the XM16E1

Currently seen Mockup of an XM16E1 (built from an M16A1 as the base) with 20 round magazine - 5.56x45mm. This example is the screen-used rifle used by Mel Gibson in We Were Soldiers.

The XM16E1 is a modified variant of the original M16 which featured several improvements, including the forward assist, the most visually obvious difference. The Army requested this feature, but the Air Force believed it had no benefit and only increased the weapon's per-unit cost. Consequently, the M16 (SP1) was the version adopted by the Air Force, while the Army adopted the slightly more expensive XM16E1. After the M16A1 was introduced in 1967, both services transitioned to this rifle. Before 1968, this was the most common version of the M16 rifle platform. Many examples in recent films are actually 'faux' XM16E1 rifles. The real XM16E1 has a partial magazine fence on its lower receiver, whereas the M16A1 has a full raised rib around the magazine release button).

Television

Video Games

M16A1 Rifle

M16A1 with 20 round magazine - 5.56x45mm. What distinguishes it from the original M16 was the addition of a raised rib around the magazine release button, changing of the forward Receiver pins, and the addition of the forward assist button on the upper receiver.

Colt M16A1 with A2 handguards - 5.56x45mm. Putting the distinctive A2 handguards on the older rifle was a method used by Movie/TV armorers to simulate A2 rifles when M16A1s were the only ones available. The same thing has been done vice-versa, Using M16A2's with A1 handguards for Vietnam War B Movies.

A modification of the XM16E1 to address problems found in the testing cycle of the XM16E1. Changes included a closed "birdcage" flash hider to replace the XM16E1's three-pronged flash hider, which caught on twigs and leaves, a full fence around the magazine release to prevent accidental ejection and a chrome plated chamber - later fully lined bore - to reducing fouling. The bolt was also changed so the cam pin could not be inserted with the bolt installed backwards, which would cause failures to eject until corrected.

M16A2 Rifle

Colt Government Model HBAR, the A2 version of the AR-15 Civilian Rifle - 5.56x45mm (note the lack of a third position for burst mode for the selector switch)

M16A2 (5.56x45mm) with M203 40mm grenade launcher

In 1982, a development requested by the US Marine Corps as a result of combat experience in Vietnam. Modifications were extensive, including new, faster rifling (1 twist every 7 inches, replacing the M16A1's 1:12 twist rate) to permit the use of the heavier SS109 round, a heavier barrel to resist bending and reduce overheating in sustained fire, an adjustable rear sight to allow sighting-in for ranges between 300 and 800 metres to take full advantage of the SS109's ballistic characteristics as well as windage adjustments without the use of special tools or a cartridge. The buttstock was lengthened 5⁄8 in (15.9 mm). The handguards were changed from the vertically split triangular pattern to the horizontally split round version found on carbines. A notch for the middle finger was added to the pistol grip. The flash hider was closed at the bottom to prevent dirt being kicked up when fired prone. A brass deflector was added to the upper receiver to prevent spent brass hitting left-handed shooters. The A1's full auto setting was dropped and replaced with a three round burst setting to prevent "spray and pray" usage by inexperienced users. The forward assist was changed from teardrop to round mainly as a cost-saving measure.

In contrast to the real world M16A2 rifle adopted by the US military in the early 1980s, most of the A2s seen in movies are A2 'kits' built on A1 full auto lower receivers (or converted A2 style receivers). Most movie "M16A2" rifles have the A1 Birdcage flash hider installed, since cinematographers want the "starburst" of the flash to go all the way around, not just divert upwards (as is the case with the correct A2 Flash hider). In the real world, the fully automatic version of the M16A2 is known as the M16A3, however, because nearly all movie "M16A2s" fire full automatic, it is not IMFDB policy to designate these rifles as "M16A3s" when identifying them in movies, since in nearly all cases they are intended to pass for M16A2s.

Also note that some American movies feature M16A1 rifles fitted with M16A2-style handguards, such as Heat and Die Hard 2. An example of such a rifle can be seen in the M16A1 entry above. When identifying M16 variants, please look at the receiver of the rifle in question, not just its handguards, to determine whether it is an A1 or an A2.

First variant is fitted with M203 and can fire in semi-auto, three-round burst, and inaccurately full-auto; second variant fitted with scope and suppressor, also featuring an inaccurate 32-round magazine

First variant erroneously featuring a 14.5" barrel while ironically the second variant has the correct 20" barrel; the fire selector switch is set on semi-auto; Available only for the Rifleman class of the Joint Ops faction

M16A4 Rifle

M16A4 with carry handle attached - 5.56x45mm

M16A4 with railed handguard, AN/PEQ-2 IR designator, KAC foregrip, and Trijicon TA01 4x32 ACOG scope - 5.56x45mm. This is not a military M16A4 MWS, because the railed handguard is not a KAC M5 RAS (it lacks the cut-out in the upper half to accommodate the M203 barrel clamp).

M16A4 MWS with ACOG and grippod - 5.56x45mm. Note the cut-out in the KAC M5 RAS.

The M16A4 is a 3-round burst rifle like the M16A2. The original upper receiver with a fixed carry handle was replaced with one that has a removable handle and a built-in full-length Picatinny rail for mounting optics and other ancillary devices. The M16A4 is the standard-issue rifle of the U.S. Marine Corps, though a switch to the M4 carbine was made in late 2015.

Military-issue M16A4 are also equipped with a Knight's Armament Company M5 RAS railed handguard (RAS standing for "Rail Adapter System"). Such rifles were designated M16A4 MWS (Modular Weapon System) in the U.S. Army field manuals.

As is the case with the A2 rifle, all movie/TV appearances of the 'flat top' M16 are full auto, not 3-round burst, since no director wants to see only three rounds fire at a time. So these are, again, A4 uppers built on full auto lower receivers. Despite the fact that the real world A4 is a 3-round burst rifle, IMFDB will still refer to the movie incarnations as A4s, since that is the rifle they are supposed to represent on film.

Television

Colt Match Target

Colt Match Target with 5 round magazine - 5.56x45mm

Colt Match Target Competition with 10 round magazine - 5.56x45mm

Post-ban version of the AR-15A2 HBAR; it has the bayonet lug deleted and features a barrel that has no threading and therefore cannot accept a muzzle brake or flash hider. A 'Competition' model was also made, incorporating a flat-top upper receiver to allow mounting of various optics. Both versions of the Match Target are available with a permanently attached compensator as a factory option.

Film

Television

Colt AR-15 Sporter Carbine

Colt Sporter I Carbine - 5.56x45mm. Colt's public offering of a lightweight carbine based on the AR-15 Platform. This rifle has been erroneously called "the M16 Shorty" for years by Law Enforcement and Firearms "authors". The "M16 Shorty" or "Shorty Carbine" have never been authorized or used names for the rifle by Colt or the Government.

Colt Sporter I Carbine modified with a 14.5" barrel to replicate a Model 654, the export model of the Model 653 without forward assist - 5.56x45mm

Colt Sporter II Carbine with 20 round magazine - 5.56x45mm. Colt model #R-6420. Colt still insisted on using the SP1 style lower receiver so any rifle that looks like this but has the ribbing around the magazine release button is not a Colt rifle. Variants of this rifle have both the round and tear drop forward assist buttons, however, most of the early years of production had the tear drop button, like this rifle in the photo.

Colt Sporter II Carbine with 30 round magazine - 5.56x45mm. This is the exact same rifle as above except with a 30 round magazine instead of a 20 round magazine.

Diemaco C7/Colt Model 715

Known as the Colt Model 715 in the United States, the Diemaco C7 is a Canadian license-built version of the M16 that was developed in tandem with the M16A2, but retains the rear sight and the automatic firing mode of the earlier M16A1, with the further addition of a heavier barrel and brass deflector. The original C7 was gradually replaced by the C7A1 in Canadian service during the mid 1990s, eliminating the carrying handle in favor of a Weaver rail system and a 3.5x ELCAN optical sight. The C7A2 is a mid-life upgrade of the C7A1 that adds a 4-position M4-style stock, a new handguard and pistol grip in OD green, and a Triad rail system that allows for the mounting of additional accessories such as RIS foregrips or AN/PEQ-2 laser illumination devices.

NOTE: Diemaco (currently Colt Canada) does not permit sale of their weapons to civilians (including film armorers), so C7s in films is near impossible to see. However, several AR-15 manufacturers built identically-configured rifles with the same receiver style, which were usually marketed as "budget" alternatives to their M16A2 clones. Colt manufactured the Model 715, while Olympic Arms manufactured its own version, the K4B (which is currently sold as the "Plinker Plus 20"). Most of the "C7" rifles appearing in movies and TV shows are the older-model (pre-1994) Olympic Arms K4B rifles; these guns are evidently preferred by the armorers in Vancouver, British Columbia and have been featured on TV shows such as Stargate: SG1, The X-Files, Millennium, and Viper. If the movie or TV show you are watching was filmed in British Columbia, chances are that you're seeing a converted Olympic Arms K4B, and not a genuine C7.

Essentially a carbine version of the C7 rifle, the C8 carbine serves the same role in the Canadian Armed Forces as the M4A1 carbine serves in the US military. The original C8 is virtually identical to the Colt Model 653 carbine, while later variants introduced heavier barrels and flat-top upper receivers.

The C8A1 is features a flat-top upper receiver. The C8A2 features a heavier barrel. The C8FTHB, later called simply C8A3, is a further improved variant with green furniture and a cutout for a grenade launcher. The C8A3 variant was technically further modified with ambidextrous controls.

The C8 SFW (Special Forces Weapon) features a longer, 400 mm (15.7 in) barrel. It is used by British special forces under the designation L119A1 SFIW (Special Forces Individual Weapon).

The C8 CQB variant features a compact barrel similar to the Mk 18 Mod 0. It is also used by British special forces under the designation L119A1 CQB.

Diemaco/Colt Canada C7/C7A1 LSW

A light machine gun variant of the C7, the LSW features an enlarged gas tube and heavier barrel with a correspondingly larger handguard with a distinctive square profile and detachable carry handle. The weapon is only capable of being fired in fully automatic from an open bolt (hence no need for a forward assist), and features a bipod, vertical grip and modified buffer tube to aid in automatic fire. The weapon was a joint venture between Colt and Diemaco, and is thus the only Canadian variant to feature the A2 rear sights as standard. The original C7 LSW was designed in the 80s and featured a barrel mounted bipod and fixed sights. The weapon was updated to the C7A1 LSW in the 90's, which featured a flattop receiver and a handguard mounted bipod. These two weapons were sold by Colt as the Model 750 and Model 950 respectively and were known as either the "Light Machine Gun" or "Automatic Rifle", however all weapons are actually made by Diemaco/Colt Canada as noted by the maple leaf stamped on the magazine well.

Film

Video Games

Colt XM177/CAR-15/Commando Series

Colt Model 607, a.k.a. CAR-15 SMG - 5.56x45mm

Colt Model 609, a.k.a. XM177E1 - 5.56x45mm. This Carbine utilized the partial magazine fence, the tear drop forward assist, but kept the 10" barrel and Flash hider/Suppressor that did not have a grenade ring (a later feature on the E2 model).

GAU-5/A, a.k.a. Colt Model 610 - 5.56x45mm. This is the USAF version and was only used by them. This is NOT the E1 version, which was used almost exclusively by the Army. Like all Air Force GAU-designated carbines, the GAU-5/A was folded into the GUU-5/P designation when it was decided to make the GAU- prefix specific to aircraft cannons: any modern example would have a 14.5 inch 1/7 twist barrel.

XM177E2 Carbine, a.k.a. Colt Model 629 - 5.56x45mm. This was the last variant of the XM177 rifle used in the Vietnam War: following the war many of these rifles were transferred to the Air Force and were classified as GAU-5A/B or GAU-5/B (sources vary), and these too were later altered to the GUU-5/P standard with a 14.5 inch 1/7 twist barrel.

Late 1970s model AR15 Sporter 1 Carbine - converted into an XM177 Lookalike for the film The Dogs of War - 5.56x45mm

Commercial CAR-15 semiautomatic Rifle - 5.56x45mm. This is strictly a semiautomatic civilian copy of the XM177 style of rifles. The flash hider is a smaller diameter copy of the XM-177 and has no sound suppression qualities and is permanently welded onto the barrel to make it legal length for over the counter gun store sales.

Colt Model 639 (commercial/export variant of the XM177E2) - 5.56x45mm. In the 70s the ATF classified the XM177E2 style 4.5" moderator as a suppressor, hence carbines manufactured after this point are fitted with a standard flash hider.

During the Vietnam War, Colt made several short barreled carbines that were fielded. In 1966 the Colt Model 607 (a line of carbines that would eventually be called the CAR-15 in the US Market) was designated the XM177 in Vietnam. It had a 10" barrel (initially with a 3-prong flash hider then a 3.5" moderator) and a slab side receiver just like the original AR-15s, in addition it had a complicated extending triangular stock and a shortened triangular handguard. In the same year, due to issues with the Model 607, the Colt Model 609 was developed and designated the XM177E1, where they added a forward assist, upgraded takedown pin assembly, a simpler two-position telescoping tubular aluminum stock, reinforced two-piece round handguards, and an improved 4.25" moderator. This version was also where they started stamping the receivers "Commando", thus known as the "Colt Commando" in the United States. The Colt Model 610 was a version without a forward assist built for the USAF security forces, and was called the XM177 GAU-5/A or when formally adopted by the US Air Force, the GAU-5/A (which is why the gun is seen on the show Stargate: SG1 since the USAF used the carbine until recently). In 1967, the Colt Model 629 was officially designated the XM177E2 having changed the barrel from 10" to 11.5", a grenade ring was added to the 4.25" moderator, and was given a chromed chamber (the same modifications made to the A1 upgrade of the M16 rifle). This is the version most seen as replica and airsoft guns throughout the world.

The GAU-5/A was adopted by the US Air Force during the Vietnam War and is still used by the USAF. The weapon's designation changed in 1989 when it was decided that the GAU- designation should only apply to aircraft guns, and infantry guns should be classified as GUU (guns, miscellaneous personal equipment) with a /P (personal) end. Air Force Colt rifles (models 610 (GAU-5A), 629 (GAU-5A/B), 630 or 649 (GAU-5A/A, it is unclear which) and some USAF M16s) were fitted with 14.5 inch 1/7 twist barrels (some had already been given 14.5 inch 1/12 twist barrels and may or may not have been designated "GAU-5/P") with their original markings erased and all were marked as "GUU-5/P." All have the national stock number 1005-01-042-9820 regardless of their actual configuration.

The XM177E1 and the XM177E2 were adopted by the US Army and are no longer used.

Movie Armorer's note: Since the ATF viewed the moderator of the XM177 as a 'silencer' due to the sound baffles within the item, it was as strictly controlled as any other silencer. Also the interior design of the flash hider / sound suppressor of the XM177 made it difficult to adapt to fire movie blanks. Thus there are virtually NO real XM177s used in movies. Most of the versions seen in films are modified commercial SP1 Carbines/M16 shorties with 'fake' XM177 flash hiders slipped over or welded to the end of the barrel. Also movie armorers used aftermarket barreled uppers by third party manufacturers and mated them to existing fully automatic lower receivers, thus were constantly swapping parts to build up guns which were requested by movie directors. So it is possible to see various upper receiver assemblies on recognizable M16/A1/A2 lower receivers.

Television

Mockups from various models - Earlier appearances (Season 3 to Season 5) built off of A1 and A1E1 receivers (Such as Colt Model 653s and Olympic Arms K3Bs), Later appearances (Season 6 onward) built off of A2 receivers (Such as Colt Model 727); Later carbines also feature mounted weaponlights

Colt Model 723 "M16A2 Carbine", late model with "M4" profile barrel - 5.56x45mm. This configuration was available from 1987, and used the barrel from the Colt Model 720 (a prototype rifle which was part of the XM4 program).

Colt Model 727 "M16A2 Government Carbine" - 5.56x45mm

Colt Model 733 "M16A2 Commando/M4 Commando" - 5.56x45mm. Note, the Model 733 does not appear to have a set specification from Colt, and could be found with either an A1, A1E1 or A2 upper receiver, A1 or A2 lower receiver, A1 or A2 barrel profile, and a coated aluminum or fiberlite stock. This particular rifle has an A2 lower, an A1E1 upper (forward assist and case deflector with A1 sights as found on Canadian Colts), and a coated aluminium stock.

After 1973 Colt made several lightweight versions of the M16 and Commando rifles for use with Police and Security forces, as well as civilian sales worldwide. It had the features of the XM177 carbine series, including the telescoping stock, but had either a 14.5" or a 16" lightweight barrel, depending on the demands of the customer, whether domestic or foreign. It was NOT correct for Vietnam, despite what the movie Platoon portrays. Though 'unofficially' called the "M16 Shorty" by some writers and shooters, the 16" barreled lightweight carbine was never adopted formally by the US Military, and thus never had an "M" or "XM" designation. It was used in the US by Federal and local law enforcement. The Model 653 is also the basis for the Diemaco/Colt Canada C8 carbine series (see above).

In 1985 Colt also made the Model 733, which was a 11.5" barreled version of the Model 653, intended for tactical police and security work. Later manufactured versions of both guns had A2 style heavy barrels. The Model 723 was a 733 designed for export for the UAE and used by US Delta Force.

What is confusing is that other manufacturers made all sorts of modified short barreled AR-15 rifles for the Police and Civilian markets throughout the years. Colt themselves bastardized so many of their rifles throughout the years, swapping particular uppers with different lowers so that there will always be exceptions to the rule. The explosion of custom and unique looking AR-15 rifles in the 1980s and 1990s has led to a lot of confusion regarding what rifle is in what movie.

Anime

M231 Firing Port Weapon

M231 Firing Port Weapon - 5.56x45mm

The M231 Firing Port Weapon is a stripped-down, bare-bones carbine designed for US Army soldiers riding in the M2 & M3 Bradley infantry fighting vehicles. The FPW was designed to allow transported soldiers to protect the vulnerable flanks and rear of the IFV while still under armor. The weapon is only capable of full-auto fire with no semi-auto mode. Later upgrades to the Bradley blocked the firing ports on the sides of the hull with extra armor, though FPWs are still carried for the two rear ports covering the loading ramp.

Video Games

AR-15 Carbine

AR-15 Carbine with 20 round magazine - 5.56x45mm.

The AR-15 (for Armalite Model 15) Carbine is the common name for the widely-owned semi-automatic rifle which soon afterwards became the selective fire M16 and M4 carbine assault rifles, which are currently in use by the United States military. AR-15 was the original name for what became the militarily designated M16, the assault rifle first used by the US in the Vietnam War. The name AR-15 is now used almost exclusively to refer to the semi-automatic (commercially available) civilian version(s) of the M16 and M4 assault rifles.

Standard AR-15 rifles accept detachable magazines of widely varying capacities, and have a pistol grip that protrudes beneath the stock. AR-15 rifles are highly configurable and customizable. They are commonly fitted with several accessories such as bipods, folding or collapsing stocks, threaded barrels for the attachment of a flash suppressor, and a rail system for the attachment of vertical grips, flashlights, laser sights, telescopic sights, etc.

The AR-15 consists of separate upper and lower receiver assemblies, which are attached with two through-pins and can be quickly interchanged with no tools. The upper receiver assembly is simply considered a part, and may be freely purchased and mail-ordered in most locations. This is a very attractive feature for enthusiasts, who often purchase a number of upper receivers (often in different calibers) and interchange them with the same lower receiver. However, one must be thoroughly familiar with firearms laws before doing this as it is possible to make an illegal configuration.

The M4 Carbine is a 14.5" barreled select fire assault rifle adopted by the United States Armed Forces. It has a distinctive 'step down' in the barrel to allow for mounting the M203 grenade launcher. The M4 has 3-round burst capability, while the M4A1 has full-auto fire capability. The very earliest M4s delivered to the US Army in 1994 had fixed carry handles and were known in Colt's catalog as the Model 777. However, by 1995, the military standardized the Model 920 (M4) and Model 921 (M4A1), which featured a flattop upper receiver and a detachable carry handle; in spite of the receiver difference relative to the earlier Model 777, the Model 920 retained the same "M4" designation. Contrary to popular misconception, the carry handles on most M4s and M4A1s are detachable; since the early-2000s, almost all M4 carbines are used with the carry handle removed, and a folding rear sight and optic being attached to the receiver instead. As far as the DoD procurement program has always been concerned, the burst/auto capability is the only difference between an M4 and M4A1. (NOTE: More recently produced M4A1s - known as the Model 921HB - also have a thicker barrel profile under the handguards along with a heavier buffer to slow the rate of fire, meaning that the weapon is more controllable during fully automatic firing and is less prone to overheating.) As of 2014, most burst-fire M4s have been converted to the upgraded full-auto M4A1s.

What is confusing is that many civilian commercial makers of AR-15 style rifles call their 16" Carbine "The M4" (these weapons are often referred to as "M4geries"). Though there is no rule saying they can't name their gun whatever they want, the official M4 is the version used and originally issued by the US Army and built by Colt. Colt tried to sue other gun makers to stop using the term 'M4' (specifically, Bushmaster and Heckler & Koch: the latter settled out of court and changed the name of their "HK M4" to HK416) however, in 2005 it was ruled that M4 refers to a type of firearm and Colt's trademark was revoked. Owing to a second spate of legal shenanigans with Colt over the US Army trying solicit new-production M4A1s competitively (which came to a head when they awarded part of the contract to Remington), M4A1s produced since February 2013 have been made by FN Herstal.

In the field, the M4/M4A1 is typically issued to standard infantry with Knight's Armament Corporation (KAC) M4 RAS railed handguards (usually holding an IR designator, a vertical foregrip, sometimes a flashlight, or one of many types of rifle scopes and red-dot or reflex optics). United States Special Forces have access to additional accessories through the SOPMOD (Special Operations Peculiar Modification) program. The SOPMOD kit consists of various standardized accessories such as optics, laser sights, and suppressors, as well as a shortened M203 grenade launcher. The core of the SOPMOD is an M4A1 Carbine with a KAC railed handguard, much like the ones used by the standard infantry. The SOPMOD program, specifically Block I of the program, was initially proposed in 1992 by United States special forces, and was developed by the Naval Surface Warfare Center. Block II, which began issue in 2005, uses Daniel Defense RIS II rails (see M4/M4A1 Block II entry - below). In general usage, SOPMOD refers to M4s equipped with accessories from the SOPMOD kit, though at times the term has been used as a general name for any kind of M4 with lots of tacticool accessories.

The Mk 18 and Mk 12 (see below) had their origins in the SOPMOD program, originally intended as alternate upper receivers for the SOPMOD kit.

M4/M4A1 Block II

M4A1 SOPMOD Block II - 5.56x45mm NATO. Note that the weapon is equipped with a Daniel Defense RIS II rail forearm, the key component of the SOPMOD II kit. The RIS II rail is the distinguishing feature which makes this weapon a "Block II" M4A1.

Daniel Defense M4A1 with Magpul PMAG - 5.56x45mm. Also known as the "Mil-Spec+", this is Daniel Defense's commercial clone of the M4 Block II - featuring a 14.5" barrel with a pinned flash hider, the RIS II rail system, and Daniel Defense's proprietary furniture. Currently, this rifle is a common stand-in for the actual SOPMOD-issue M4 Block II in Hollywood.

In 2001, the Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC - Crane Division) initiated Block II of the SOPMOD program, which called for both new accessories (optics, flashlights, etc.), as well as a new M4/M4A1 Rail Interface System (RIS) to replace the Knight's Armament Company (KAC) forearm from Block I. Among others, SOPMOD Block II introduced accessories such as:

During the rail selection phase, NSWC-Crane surprised most observers when they chose a new lightweight rail forearm manufactured by a then-unknown vendor, Daniel Defense, based in Black Creek, Georgia, over competing rail designs from KAC (the Block I vendor) and ARMS. In contrast to the earlier KAC rails, Daniel Defense's design, designated RIS II, extended nearly the full length of an M4's barrel, past the gas block, thereby increasing M1913 Picatinny rail space relative to the KAC rail. Two versions of the RIS II exist: A version which contains a slot to fit over an M4's A-frame front sight post (known as the "RIS II FSP"), and a continuous version (simply "RIS II") which contains no FSP slot and therefore must be used with a low-profile gas block. The RIS II was first adopted by SOCOM in 2006. However, in contrast to most of the other SOPMOD Block II accessories, which began reaching operators in the field in 2005, SOCOM did not issue its first major procurement contract for the RIS II until 2009, and Daniel Defense's own production lines strained to keep up with government demand for several years. (Further: The RIS II was also not widely available on the commercial market during this time.) Consequently, the RIS II did not enter widespread usage with SOCOM component personnel until after 2010, and it did not fully replace the KAC rail in SOCOM until 2016, by which point newer, modular rails (e.g. using the Keymod and M-LOK attachment systems) had begun to usurp full-length Picatinny rails on the commercial AR-15 market.

For IMFDB's purposes, the primary difference between "Block I" M4s (above) and the M4 Block II is that the former use the KAC rail handguards and the triangular front sight post, while the M4 Block II is distinguished by its use of the Daniel Defense RIS II rail system, which runs along the full length of the barrel. Note also that in the early days of the SOPMOD Block II program, it was common for SOCOM personnel to utilize M4s fitted with the traditional KAC rail, while still using optics and sighting devices from the Block II package; any M4 that uses a KAC rail and Block II accessories is known informally as an "M4 Block 1.5" in the AR-15 community. IMFDB, however, regards only the RIS II as the distinguishing feature of a "Block II" M4/M4A1 carbine.

The Colt Model 933 is a semi/full-auto carbine similar to the M4A1 carbine listed above, except with an 11.5" barrel as opposed to the 14.5" barrel on the M4A1. Much like the earlier Colt Model 733, which it replaced, the barrel thickness varied; some versions had the M16A1 barrel profile, while others had the thicker M16A2/M4 barrel profile. Additionally, the RO933 was one of Colt's first AR-15-pattern rifles to feature a front sight post which had the bayonet lug deleted, though this was not standard and some versions retained the bayonet lug. All versions, however, feature the flattop upper receiver and removable carry handle/rear sight assembly found on the M4.

A burst version of the Model 933 was also produced; this version was known as the Model 935 and was purchased in limited numbers by the U.S. Marine Corps Reconnaissance community beginning in the late-1990s ([1]). However, beyond the USMC, the Model 933/935 saw little acceptance in U.S. SOCOM; most special operations units instead opted to use either the standard 14.5" barrel M4 or the 10" CQBR/Mark 18.

Both variants are fitted with ACOG scopes; the "Marksman Carbine" has black finish, whilst the "All American" has woodland camouflage finish, as well both lack the charging handle on the rear, which is located on the moving bolt on the right side where the brass ejects instead

An even shorter-barreled M4A1 Carbine, it has a 10.5 inch barrel. The upper receiver, which is used on a regular M4 lower receiver, is designated CQB-R (Close Quarters Battle-Receiver), while the entire weapon system is designated as the Mk 18 Mod 0 by the United States Navy. Used by Navy VBSS units, NCIS, and Navy SEALs. It is another one of the weapons that fell under the 'M4 Commando' nickname as an airsoft gun.

Colt Model R6530 "AR-15A2 Sporter Lightweight" - 5.56x45mm. This rifle is a civilian version of the AR-15A2 Government Carbine, and is identical apart from the addition of a fixed stock and removal of the bayonet lug.

Colt Law Enforcement Carbine

The "M4A1" of the civilian world, this rifle has a 16" barrel (as opposed to the M4A1's 14.5") with step-cuts to attach a launcher such as an M203 grenade launcher and the Cobray 37mm Launcher. In films, this gun has been converted to full auto to trick viewers into believing it is an M4A1, earning it the nickname "M4gery".

Mk 12 Special Purpose Rifle

SPR prototype with Leupold Mark 4 scope, Parker & Hale bipod, and suppressor - 5.56x45mm. This prototype of the SPR used an an earlier version of the PRI flip-up front BUIS, along with an earlier generation free-float handguard which had a smaller locking ring the same diameter as the tube, and subsequently the ARMS rail lacked the indent in the bottom edge present on later Mk 12 Mod 0 rifles.

Video Games

Commercial Copies of the M16 Rifle series

Many of the guns seen as Colt model guns aren't Colt at all, but the many other manufacturer copies of the M16/AR-15 series of firearms. The most common clones are the guns made by Bushmaster, PWA and Eagle Arms. Though there are now many semi-automatic rifles made by companies like Panther DPMS and others, most of the Movie Prop houses acquired their guns before the 1990s. So only the most common third party manufacturers will be seen. Since it's difficult to determine which maker built the gun, for the sake of simplicity, the rifle variants in movies will be identified by the COLT model they most look like, unless there is clear evidence of a third party manufacturer. Sometimes this is possible via DVD commentary, direct information from the Armorer, or a clear shot of the manufacturer trademarks on the gun in a screenshot.

Television

Ferfrans SCW

The Ferfrans SCW (Sub-Compact Weapon) is part of the SOAR's CQB weapon. The main feature of the SCW is its patented Delayed Sear Activation System. It is a mechanical device that reduces the cyclic rate of full-auto fire of the M16 / M4A1 type rifles from 850-900 rpm to 550-680 rpm.

Television

Norinco Model 311

The Chinese copy of the M16A1, also called the CQ 5.56. Can be differentiated by the grips, front sight, stock, and handguard. The Model 311 is also produced by DIO of Iran as the S-5.56 and in modified form as the DIO KH2002.

Non Firing Replicas of the M16 Rifle

MGC M-16 Model Gun Corp Replica Rifle

The MGC M16 Assault rifle: a non firing metal replica built by the Model Gun Corp of Japan and one of the most used non firing replicas of the M16 in movies and television. The 'forward assist' on the early models like the one imaged here are bolt inserts to keep the receiver together. Modern MGC M16 replicas have improved by third parties over the years (like adding A1 flash hiders) making it more accurate to the real thing making it harder for 'Connoisseurs' to identify

The MGC M16 Assault rifle: a non firing metal replica built by the Model Gun Corp of Japan. This is a closeup of the receiver and clearly shows how the 'fake' forward assist is actually a connector with allen nut in the back. Removal of this nut separates the upper and lower receivers.

MGC CAR-15 replica assault rifle with 20 round MGC magazine.

The MGC CAR-15 Assault rifle: Model Gun Corporation's XM177 offering. Interesting enough, MGC called their replica rifle the CAR-15 which was Colt's name for the civilian (non-military designation) rifle, rather than any of the names give by the US Military. This replica rifle was built on the same MGC M16 receiver, however the buttstock was pot metal, not plastic and it did not telescope. Instead the makers of the gun split the difference and locked the non-adjustable stock into the 'half extended/half closed' position. This feature did not enamor replica gun collectors to the weapon and it did not sell well.

Before the advent of inexpensive Airsoft guns there were precious few replica weapons that could be used in productions if they didn't want to have a live firing weapon on set, or for a stunt or if they didn't have the budget to get a real gun (and armorer). Though the US Army had a "rubber duck", i.e. slang for the hard rubber training M16 they used, it was not readily available on demand for the movie prop houses of the 1970s and the 1980s. Thus the metal REPLICA gun was used (those models that were actually available for purchase). Model Gun Corporation of Japan made and built excellent quality metal replica guns between the late 1960s and the early 1980s and the most utilized one was the MGC M16 assault rifle. They were sold in the United States by Collector's Armory, Ltd. (and should not be confused with the inferior quality zinc-pot metal replicas currently coming in from Spain). There is also the MGC XM177 Commando carbine variant (listed in the catalog as the CAR-15), which is basically the same as above but with a non-retractable stock for imitation purposes. The MGC Replica is most likely the most used M16 replica seen in film and television production.

.22LR caliber versions

Adler-Jager AP-74/Armi-Jager AP-15

Armi-Jager AP-15 - .22 LR. The AP-15 has a slab side receiver and a tiny ejection port (for the .22 brass) and a birdcage flash hider. The AP-74 has a three prong flash hider.

Adler-Jager AP-74 - .22 LR. Note the sharply angled three prong flash hider and the forward assist, which differentiates it from the AP-15.

Made in Italy and imported into the US by Mitchell Arms (during the 1970s and early 1980s), these M16 clones were chambered for .22 LR and looked very similar to the M16 or M16A1 rifles. The dummy "20 round magazine" was a solid part of the lower receiver. A small .22LR magazine was inserted into the bottom of the dummy magazine. They were used sometimes in films due to budgetary reasons, since low budget films (especially in the 1970s and 80s) could pick up a .22LR M16 clone for less than a real AR-15. There were .22 LR guns imported into the US with either Armi-Jager or Adler-Jager markings (but the Armi-Jager was most common), so both names are correct.

Armscor M16 22

Armscor (out of the Philippines) made another .22LR clone rifle, the Armscor M16 22, however this rifle looked even less like a real M16 and was rarely (if ever) used in a film to impersonate an M16 rifle.

Film

Smith & Wesson MP15-22

Smith & Wesson MP15-22 with LMT rear sight - .22 LR

Due to popular demand for .22LR versions, a number of manufacturers have produced such models for the civilian market, predominantly for plinking and varmint hunting. Smith & Wesson are offering the MP15-22, a realistic semi-auto copy with 25 rounds capacity that can be equipped with many accessories due to the Picatinny rails.

Film

Air Guns

Crosman M4-177

Crossman M4-177 - .177 pellets/BBs

The Crosman M4-177 is a pump action air rifle built in the general form of an M4 carbine. It is most easily distinguished from a genuine AR-15 by the distinctive front sight block which has a gap between it and the handguard. The rifle feeds from either a 5 round pellet clip (which must be manually indexed with each shot) or from an integral gravity fed 18 round BB magazine (which is topped up from an integral 350 round hopper). To charge the rifle for each shot it must be "pumped" between 4 and 10 times depending on the power required and this is done by rotating the handguard downwards. You must then manually cock the bolt to chamber the pellet/BB (after indexing the clip to the correct position if pellets are being used) before being able to fire.

Television

Crosman Air 17

Crosman Air 17 - .177 pellets/BBs

The Crosman Air 17 is a pump action air rifle built in the general form of an M16 rifle. It is most easily distinguished from a genuine M16 by the pump tube under the barrel, rounded rear receiver and blockish magazine well. The rifle feeds from either a 5 round pellet clip (which must be manually indexed with each shot) or from an integral gravity fed BB magazine (which is topped up from an integral hopper). To charge the rifle for each shot it must be "pumped" once each time by pulling down on the handguard. You must then manually cock the bolt to chamber the pellet/BB (after indexing the clip to the correct position if pellets are being used) before being able to fire.